China showcased NATO-standard artillery at a prominent defense exhibition in France, aiming to bolster its exports of land-based weaponry amid stiff competition from Western rivals and geopolitical challenges, analysts noted.

During Eurosatory, one of Europe’s largest defense shows, 61 Chinese defense firms participated, a significant rise from fewer than 10 companies in 2022. Leading the display was China North Industries Group Corporation (Norinco), which presented scale models of its PLZ-52 and truck-mounted SH-15 155mm self-propelled howitzers.

Both howitzers by Norinco adhere to NATO’s 155mm caliber standard. The PLZ-52 (also known as PLZ-05A), though without an established export track record, and the PCL-181 (exported as SH-15), have already been purchased by Pakistan and Ethiopia.